Mankins: Everything OK between me, Kraft

Thu, 08/04/2011 - 8:02pm — Christopher Price

FOXBORO – Contrary to popular belief, Patriots offensive lineman Logan Mankins said he has never had a problem with owner Robert Kraft.

"Let's get things straight: Me and Mr. Kraft never had a problem. I never said he lied," Mankins said Thursday when he was asked how things stand between him and Kraft. "When I said the organization, I never said he did. So let's get that straight right now. Me and Mr. Kraft never had a problem. We've talked last offseason, we've talked last season, we've talked this offseason, we've talked in training camp, so everything is good between me and him."

Last year, Mankins expressed frustration with his contract situation and told ESPN that he wanted to be be traded. He later sat out the first half of last season because he was unhappy with his contract situation. However, the Pro Bowl left guard recently signed his $10.1 million franchise tender, and he shrugged when he was asked why he signed so quickly this time around.

"I figured I'm getting paid a lot of money this year, I should put in a full year," he said. "This year I'm putting everything behind me. I'm going to try to have a good year, help the team, and if I play good things will take care of themselves."